East Portal Trailhead: Crater Lakes

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

The Crater Lakes are a cluster of 5 lakes spread about a rugged valley that forms a major tributary to South Boulder Creek. A maintained but potentially ill-defined trail breaks NW off the East Portal's main artery to lower Crater Lakes, a scenic pair separated only by a thin, elevated ridge. A third lake is concealed by timber nearby, and accessible by social trails. A strenuous route continues west up a steep wall to the talus-bound cirque of upper Crater Lakes.